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Skunks as pets

While I do not have a pet skunk, the skunk has always seemed such an interesting animal to keep as a pet. I had a friend many years ago who did have a pet skunk.

Pet skunks require a lot of extra consideration and care. It is not a pet for someone who does not have time, patience, and dedication.

Here is some information I've collected about keeping a skunk as a pet.

Introduction

A domesticated skunk can be a good pet to a patient owner. Some have compared them with cats in terms of temperment and the amount of care needed.

Check the local laws!

Before considering a pet skunk, you must check your local laws. Many States, counties, and cities do not allow you to keep a pet skunk.

The fact skunks are the primary carrier of rabies is another concern for pet skunk owners. Even though a domestic skunk kept indoors is protected from the rabies of its wild cousins; the laws in most States do not make a difference. There is no rabies vaccine approved for domestic skunks. One has been approved in Canada. So, you need to understand that if your skunk bites someone, there is a strong possibility that the skunk will be confiscated and killed (for a rabies exam).

Skunks in captivity

The common species used for pets is the stripped skunk (mephitis mephitis).

Skunks have been raised in captivity for over 200 years, mostly for fur. Many skunks now sold as domestic pets are considered "rejects" from these fur farms. Often, the non-standard color is popular among the pet buyer. Popular colors include white, gray, brown, blond, beige, and a sort of lavender.

A domesticated skunk is descented when young. So, other than a slight musky smell, the pet skunk does not smell "skunky".

Considerations

When considering a pet skunk, make sure to do your research. Contact pet skunk clubs. Also, check out multiple breeders or fur farms. Many pet skunks these days come from breeders who specialize in raising pet skunks. This is important to ensure the skunk is properly de-scented when young.

Skunks are not your usual pet. They are not like cats or dogs and should not be treated as such. There is far more involved in caring for a skunk. Everything from preparing the home, medical care, food, temperment, and more.

A pet skunk requires a house that is prepared properly. Skunks have poor eyesight, but excellent smell and hearing. They can climb and dig. Their claws can cause all types of damage to wood and cloth. Also, they are surprisingly strong for their size, so they are known to move objects about the house. Skunks are very curious and will explore every nook and crany in a house.

A pet skunk also requires a lot of bonding. It must be handled often when young. This will help the skunk to bond and respond to the owner. If this is not done, the skunk will be shy and retreat from the owner.

Never hit a skunk. They remember this. Unlike other pets, a skunk does not consider this a form of discipline. Instead, they will get even. Instead, use a loud sound to discipline.

Pet skunks MUST be spayed or neutered as soon as possible. The reproductive cycle (heat cycle) puts so much stress on the skunk that it can actually kill them if they do not reproduce. Males should be neutered between 3 and 4 months of age. Females should be spayed between 4 and 6 months of age.

The nails of a skunk should not be removed. Unlike cat claws, the nails of a skunk are part of its toes. If removed, the skunk will suffer foot problems and have difficulty walking. However, you may consider using clippers to trim the claws as necessary.

In theory, skunks can live as long as 13 years as pets. This is very unusual. Skunks do suffer many medical problems as they age. These can be reduced by proper nutrition and veterinary checkups.

This introduces another concern before you consider getting a pet skunk -- make sure you have a veterinary doctor in the area who knows how to care for skunks.

Summary

Like with any pet, a pet skunk carries a lot of responsibilities. Do your research. Check out the various skunk groups. Check out your local laws. Make sure you are willing to make the changes necessary in your house for this curious critter.

Skunk groups and Internet Resources

American Domestic Skunk Association (ADSA); http://www.skunks.org

Skunks as Pets Inc; http://www.skunksaspets.com

Owners of Pet Skunks (OOPS); http://members.aol.com/shadowsknk

Society of Kind Understanding for Not Killing Skunks (SKUNKS); http://hometown.aol.com/skunks10/myhomepage/

Aspen Skunk Rabies Research Ind; http://www.aspenskunk.org

People for Domestic Skunks; http://www.domesticskunks.com

The Wonderful Skunk and Opossum Website; http://granicus.if.org/~firmiss/m-d.html

Source

Eric Ilasenko; Sweet Little Stinkers : Skunks as Pets; Critters USA 2001 Annual; Fancy Publications Inc (ISSN 1093-9393); Vol 6; pp.130-138.

Pet care books

Cody Dardeen-Hildebrand; How the Skunk Earned His Stripes; (ISBN 0-9753729-0-4) 2004 Bethart Printing Services. A pet parent&s guide to having a skunk in the family. The book can ordered from the publisher at: Bethart Printing Services; 4876 Union Centre Pavilion Dr; West Chester, OH 45069